The science bit

Woody evergreen shrub up to 2m tall with young growth and twigs covered in white hairs. Leaves dark green and glossy, up to 2cm long, midvein impressed above. Produces a profusion of blooms, each with a mass of 40–60 stamens that are shorter than the petals (characteristic of this genus). Fruits dark red berries.

Facts

This species is common in Chile and usually grows on cleared land or on the edge of woods, forming part of the bush community.

The fruit is very aromatic and has a fabulous flavour that is similar to wild strawberries. It is used in southern Chile to make jam, and can also be soaked in gin and sugar to produce a Chilean version of sloe gin.

Where it grows

The Valdivian temperate rainforests of central and southern Chile, and south-western Argentina.

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